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Errol Douglas Swanson, age 83, of Westfield, NY, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026. Born on January 18th, 1943, in Jamestown, NY, he was the firstborn son of the late Earl and Priscilla Swanson. He graduated from Panama Central School where he was an outstanding basketball player under Coach Jim McElrath, Sr.
Errol was known for his boundless energy, optimism, and love of anything with an engine, especially his '62 ('63?) Corvette. After moving to California as a young man, Errol worked as a police officer for the Pomona Police Department. He was most proud of his military service in the US Army, where he piloted helicopters in Vietnam, and achieved the rank of Captain following graduation from Officer Candidate School. Errol was a keen businessman, having owned several businesses in his lifetime, including a limousine business in San Francisco where he was able to drive and meet many corporate VIPs. Errol loved horses, rode for many years, and loved attending the Calgary Stampede in Canada in the 1990's. He thoroughly enjoyed recalling his days as a youngster spent with his grandfather, Frank Thayer, on The Thayer Farm in Frewsburg, NY.
After living in California, Singapore, Florida, and Kentucky, Errol spent his later years in Westfield, NY, where he helped on his nephews' golf course, running his 'big rig', fishing with his nephews, and grooming the Bourne Creek river banks. Errol attended as many of his nephews' high school soccer and basketball games that he could. He found great joy in his numerous friend ships across America, and in playing pinochle with friends and family.
Errol was a devoted brother, family member, and friend. He touched countless lives through his optimism, and those who knew him will remember many stories of his life’s experiences.
He is survived by two daughters, Lorre Brock of Waco, Texas and Kimberly Swanson of Louisville, Kentucky; and three siblings: Helen Willman and Eileen Laporte (Sam), both of Ashville, NY, and Mel Swanson (Mary) of Sherman, NY. In addition, also surviving are two grandchildren, one great-grandchild, eight nieces and nephews and 17 grand nieces and nephews. Great-nephew, Braylon Swanson was especially close to Errol. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother-in-law, Rick Willman, and his very special friends, Dick Thayer and Dorothy Post, among many others.
Visitation will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, August 2nd in the Lind Funeral Home, with a private family graveside service to be held in Sunset Hill Cemetery.
In keeping with his wishes, donations in Errol's memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Though our hearts are heavy, we celebrate Errol's life and the laughter and memories he leaves behind. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.lindfuneralhome.com.